Cool Cat

by Chet Baker

Overview

A pleasant set, distinguished for decent versions of Harold Danko's "Swift Shifting," Jon Burr's "Caravelle," and the Rodgers and Hart tune "Blue Moon," the trumpeter plays with a competent quartet that spurs him on. Although clearly weary, Baker's trumpet has some fire left, while his vocal articulation is below par. Still, the "feel" is always there, and even Baker on a less-than-perfect day is filled with joys. He solos on trumpet at length, at least as minimalist in style as ever. At this stage in his career, he remained capable of spine-tingling versions of "Round Midnight," with the trumpeter's laid-back breathy approach laying down perfectly placed notes. Pianist Danko is always worth hearing and drummer Ben Riley is his usual tasteful self. Bassist Jon Burr is a surprise, his big, juicy tone a pure pleasure. The tunes are just a tad different than usual, so Baker was forced to suspend his autopilot and dig in. Only partially satisfying, there are nonetheless enough worthwhile moments to recommend this one. ~ Steven Loewy

Product Details

Release Date:	04/28/2023
Label:	Music On Vinyl
UPC:	8719262027008
Rank:	69585

Album Credits

Performance Credits

Chet Baker   Primary Artist,Vocals,Trumpet
Ben Riley   Drums
Harold Danko   Piano
Jon Burr   Bass

Technical Credits

Bernie Hanighen   Composer
J. Fred Coots   Composer
Lorenz Hart   Composer
Sam M. Lewis   Composer
Ned Washington   Composer
Max Bolleman   Engineer
Thelonious Monk   Composer
Makoto Kimata   Producer
Cootie Williams   Composer
Richard Rodgers   Composer
Harold Danko   Composer
Victor Young   Composer
Joost Leijen   Cover Photo,Cover Design
Mamoru Kamekawa   Producer
Peter Huijts   Producer
Jon Burr   Composer
Wim Wigt   Producer